Learn about the important requirements, obligations, responsibilities, and skills that should be in a network engineer job description.
Network engineers build, maintain, update, and repair computer networks. They also troubleshoot network-related problems, protect the network from attack, and carry out disaster recovery plans in times of crisis.
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Network Engineer Job Description Template
We’re seeking an experienced network engineer to take over the day-to-day operation of our computer networks, which include an intranet, extranet, local area network (LAN), and wide area network (WAN). You’ll be responsible for selecting, assembling, testing, troubleshooting, protecting, monitoring, maintaining, repairing, and updating network-related hardware and software. You must have network hardware, network infrastructure, and application transport expertise.
Network Engineer Responsibilities
- Selecting network-related hardware (such as modems, routers, switches, bridges, controllers, wireless access points, and network interface cards) and software based on company needs.
- Building intranets, extranets, LANs, and WANs using the selected components.
- Testing the newly-built networks.
- Protecting the networks with firewalls and antivirus software.
- Documenting and diagramming each network.
- Monitoring network performance and making adjustments or updates as needed.
- Troubleshooting and repairing network issues.
- Carrying out disaster recovery plans in times of crisis.
- Learning and implementing new technologies to keep networks modern.
Network Engineer Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in information technology, information systems, computer engineering, or a related discipline
- 3+ years of experience in a similar role
- Advanced knowledge of network-related hardware and software and network infrastructure
- Strong problem-solving, communication, technical, analytical, interpersonal, and teamwork skills
- Keen attention to detail
Network Engineer Duties And Responsibilities
Let’s dive deeper into some of the network engineer’s responsibilities.
Select Network-Related Hardware and Software
Network engineers partner with company leadership to discover the firm’s networking needs. Then, they select the appropriate hardware and software to meet those needs. A network engineer must have extensive knowledge about network components to choose the correct ones for the organization.
Build and Test Networks
Network engineers take the selected components and build company networks, such as intranets, extranets, LANs, WANs, and guest networks. Then, they test their configurations to ensure they are functional. A network engineer must fully understand network infrastructure to assemble the elements correctly.
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Protect Networks
Network engineers are in charge of protecting computer networks. They install firewalls, web filters, intrusion prevention systems, antivirus software, and other security measures. A network engineer must prioritize network security to safeguard company data.
Troubleshoot and Repair Networks
Network engineers troubleshoot network issues. Then, they repair or update network components as needed. Therefore, a network engineer must have top-notch analytical and problem-solving skills.
Learn and Implement New Technology
Network engineers learn and implement new technology regularly. Doing so helps them maintain modern networks. A network engineer must therefore take their continuing professional development very seriously.
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Network Engineer Salary And Job Outlook
Here’s the current outlook for the network engineer role in the United States:
Median National Salary: $86,000+
Education Required: Bachelor’s degree
Number of Jobs: 174,000+
Job Growth 2020 – 2030: 4% (average)
The Bottom Line
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